The Problem: A Bowing Cinder Block Foundation Wall
A homeowner in Wyandanch, NY contacted Zavza Seal after noticing structural movement in a cinder block foundation wall.
The affected wall was approximately 26.8 feet long and 85 inches high. An inspection found that the wall was bowing inward because of pressure from the soil outside the foundation.
Soil constantly places lateral pressure on foundation walls. That pressure can increase with depth and can become more significant when moisture builds up in the surrounding soil. Building codes recognize lateral soil loads as an important factor in the design of foundation walls.
The wall also had a vertical structural crack that required repair and reinforcement. Simply filling the crack would not address the underlying structural concern, so the repair needed to stabilize the wall and reinforce the damaged area.
The Solution: Carbon Fiber Wall Reinforcement and Crack Repair
Zavza Seal developed a repair plan focused on stabilizing the bowing foundation wall and reinforcing the structural crack.
Carbon Fiber Reinforcement for the Bowing Wall
Before installing the reinforcement system, our team prepared the wall surfaces where the carbon straps would be installed. We scarifzied and ground the surface to remove paint, loose material and other contaminants. This exposed a clean, solid surface so the reinforcement system could properly bond to the wall.
We then installed an InvisibleBeam ICC-certified wall reinforcement system consisting of:
- 6 vertical carbon fiber straps
- 6 top anchors
- 6 bottom anchors
The carbon fiber reinforcement was installed vertically across the affected section of the cinder block wall to help resist further movement caused by exterior soil pressure.
Carbon fiber systems are commonly used for structural strengthening because they can reinforce masonry and concrete without the amount of space associated with some traditional reinforcement methods. ICC Evaluation Service maintains a directory of evaluation reports used to verify innovative building products and their code-related requirements. (ICC-ES)
Structural Crack Repair
The vertical structural crack required additional reinforcement.
Our team first used diamond blades to chase the crack and create a clean repair cavity. We then ground approximately 3 inches on each side of the crack to remove old, loose and foreign material and expose the sound cinder block core.
Next, we cut deep slots perpendicular to the structural crack. These slots were filled with structural epoxy, and non-corrosive carbon stitches were installed into the epoxy.
Each stitch is designed to provide significant tensile resistance and help prevent the crack from reopening.
After the structural stitching was completed, we applied a 6,000 PSI waterproofing cement over the repaired crack. While the cement was still wet, we embedded 4.5-ounce reinforced fiberglass mesh over the repair area. A second coat of waterproofing cement was then applied over the mesh to complete the reinforced repair.
The Result: A Reinforced and Stabilized Foundation Wall
The completed repair addressed both major concerns at the Wyandanch property:
- The bowing cinder block foundation wall was reinforced with six vertical carbon fiber straps and mechanical anchors.
- The vertical structural crack was repaired and stitched to help restore strength and prevent further expansion.
- The repaired crack was covered with reinforced waterproofing cement to provide an additional layer of protection.
- The repair provided a targeted alternative to more invasive foundation wall replacement.
The goal of foundation stabilization is not simply to cover visible cracks. The repair needs to address the forces acting on the wall and provide reinforcement that helps the wall resist further movement.
Why Professional Foundation Wall Repair Matters?
A bowing foundation wall should not be ignored. Continued movement can lead to additional cracking, water intrusion and more serious structural problems.
For homeowners in Wyandanch, Long Island and surrounding areas, early evaluation can help determine whether a foundation wall needs monitoring, structural reinforcement, crack repair or a more extensive repair.
At Zavza Seal, we evaluate the condition of the foundation and develop a repair approach based on the type and extent of the damage.
Looking for Foundation Wall Repair in Wyandanch, NY?
If you have a bowing foundation wall, structural crack or other signs of foundation movement, Zavza Seal can evaluate the problem and recommend an appropriate repair solution.
Contact Zavza Seal to schedule a foundation inspection in Wyandanch, NY and surrounding Long Island communities.